The Trustees and staff of Emsworth Community Centre, would like to thank the community for all their support over the tragic fire at the centre on Tuesday. Approximately 30% of the assembly room roof is badly burned, there was little other damage except water, but it means that the whole assembly roof is at risk. Therefore, these rooms and the library will remain closed for some time. Our thanks go to the fire service who were so professional and saved the centre from further damage.

Our thanks also go to the calm way the centre users ensured the building was evacuated and the fire service alerted. It was good to see how well everyone worked together.

And thank you to all the various organisations that have offered use of their premises - so quick to come to the rescue of our displaced groups. We are hoping that most of our groups can be reinstated, but realise that this may not be possible for all of them in the short term. We will continue to work to ensure continuity for our groups where possible.

The Chair of Trustees and the Centre Manager have just met with the Centre's Insurance Company Loss Adjuster and a Loss Assessor. The good news is that the Mountford and Lumley rooms, plus community cafe, can open as of Thursday 27th March. Do note that the car park will not be available other than to access the centre, as the assembly area will be fenced off for H&S purposes.

Again, thank you for your continued support and help at this difficult time.

Emsworth Community Centre 21st March